Hey everyone! I'm looking to buy a tool for my friend who's really into mechanics as a Christmas gift. Should I get him a right angle impact or a ratchet? I've heard mixed reviews, and he's particularly interested in getting one of these tools but hasn't decided yet. Plus, if anyone has any recommendations for M12 batteries, that would be awesome! He already has the M18 Fuel Impact Wrench, so I want to make sure I pick something that's the best fit. Thanks!
3 Answers
A lot of folks have said they regret getting the right angle impact (like the model 2564)—it's underpowered and really only shines in specific situations. On the other hand, nobody seems to regret picking up the M12 ratchet. The Fuel High Speed 2567 is a crowd favorite! Milwaukee just released some new M12 ratchets that are faster and more powerful; the 3053 looks promising, but I'm not sure when it will hit the shelves. Also, the Insider ratchet (3050) is another solid option—it has pass-through sockets and provides a nice reach. I would even say the new M12 subcompact impact wrench might be a better choice overall as it offers comparable power but is more compact!
I think the design can make a difference, especially if you're working on tough spots regularly! It might be worth testing both out side by side if you can before making a choice.
To be honest, I wouldn’t want to receive a tool as a gift. Tools can be really personal, and it’s important to research what works best for you. Your friend might not have the same preferences as you do. Instead of risking a mismatched tool, maybe consider getting him a gift card so he can choose what he wants!
Definitely go for the ratchet! I'd recommend pairing it with a 5.0 Ah battery for the best balance of power and runtime.
How does the long reach version (2560) compare to the 3050? I like the pass-thru design for longer studs, but I'm curious about how it stacks up in terms of strength. I've had my pass-thru ratchet for ages, and it still works great, so I wonder if that new design can hold up.